The removal of the Technical Excellence category stands as this year's most significant change. Boyer says the decision stems from the "rise of widespread, affordable middleware [that] has, if not leveled the playing field, then at least given many equal footing from which to begin."

Additionally, the previous minimum number of five finalists in a category has been bumped up to six. The Student Showcase and Nuovo Award (which rewards innovation) will remain at eight finalists, however, and honorable mentions will still be named for each award. Last year's decision to restrict IGF finalists from re-submitting the same project to future festivals also remains in place.

Boyer asks that any questions concerning these changes be directed to "chairman [at] igf [dot] com." Submissions for IGF 2014 will be accepted until October 19 for the Main Competition and until October 31 for the Student Competition.